TechTalk Summit: Digital Marketing
2023-05-10 07:30 - 09:00 UTC | North Iowa Commerce Center, 9 N. Federal Ave, Mason City, IA, 50401, United States
Join the TechTalk Summit on May 10th to discover what you need to know about what’s new in digital marketing. This seminar is brought to you by TechBrew North Iowa.
The event features presentations by three experts in the field:

Chris Nelson, President & CEO, Nelson Media Company
Alyssa Saunders, Director of Enterprise Initiatives & Integrations, Anthologic
Josh Scheinblum, Chief Creative Officer, Five Seasons Media

Register now
Reserve your seat today! Space is limited. Coffee and light refreshments provided.

Pappajohn Venture Competition Applications Due
2023-05-15 | IA
The 2023 John Pappajohn Iowa Entrepreneurial Venture Competition contest is intended to encourage and promote entrepreneurial activity and create greater awareness of the resources available to entrepreneurs in Iowa. We especially encourage innovative, new ventures to participate! Participants will be judged on the basis of their written submissions and, for participants who advance to later rounds, presentations to the judges.
Initial applications are due May 15, 2023 @ 11:59pm.
Visit the official website for full eligibility guidelines and a detailed timeline of deadlines. Applications must be made through the online submission portal.
Apply Now

TechTalk: Osage
2023-05-23 17:00 - 19:00 | IA
TechTalk hits the road for May – join us at Limestone Brewer’s on May 23rd with our sponsors Riskill and Popp Excavating. We’ll be at a new location this month, but you can still count on finding good conversation, new ideas, and a free beer on us!
Technology is changing our world in every industry. At the May TechTalk, we’re looking at how technology is helping manage safety. Safety culture, the role of OSHA, employee engagement, foundations to great safety performance – if you need to manage risk at your job, you need to stop in at TechTalk!
Register

Sponsored by Riskill and Popp Excavating of Osage, IA.
Riskill provides tomorrow’s safety solutions ~today. Riskill helps manage our clients manage their risks by providing skills to their employees through our training.Riskill provides tomorrow’s safety solutions ~ today. Riskill helps manage our clients manage their risks by providing skills to their employees through our training.
Popp Excavating, Inc. was founded in 1965 by Don Popp. His 3 sons, Kevin, Kurt and Keith worked with him and eventually bought the business. They are now joined by two of Don’s grandsons, Travis and Kyle, making it a 3rd generation company. Today, they offer site grading, site utilities, quarry stripping, corn loading, concrete road sawing/core drilling, demolition, over excavation, seeding/erosion control, GPS/total station, pipe jetting and hydro excavating.
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TechTalk creates a space for sparking new ideas and conversations between innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, educators, technologists, community members, and community partners. TechTalk’s goal is to engage, encourage, and elevate technology in North Iowa.
TechTalk Partners: NIACC Pappajohn Center, North Iowa Corridor EDC, Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

The Morning Brew: Unlock the Power of Personal Branding
2023-05-24 10:00 - 11:00 | IA
Welcome to The Morning Brew, brought to you by the NIACC Collegiate Entrepreneurial Organization (aka the NIACC CEO Club).
All entrepreneurs, small business owners, career oriented students, and marketing specialists are invited to this speaker event, featuring a discussion with Brad Barber, Founder & CEO of Cabin Coffee, on how to Unlock the Power of Personal Branding.
This event is free and open to both students and the public. Pastries and coffee will be provided. Registration is requested.
Sponsored by Ag Ventures Alliance
Register

Youth Entrepreneurial Academy 2023
2023-06-12 08:00 - 2023-06-16 17:00 | NIACC, 500 College Dr, Mason City, IA, 50401, United States
Inspiring creativity. Empowering success.
The Youth Entrepreneurial Academy is an opportunity for North Iowa high school students to learn and practice the essential entrepreneurial skills that are crucial for success in any career.
YEA features fun activities, opportunities for teamwork, insights into business skills like financing and marketing, local field trips, and insightful guest speakers.
Every student will have the chance to discover how their personal strengths and interests can be developed and applied to create their own path to success.
Applications due May 16

Apply now for YEA 2023

YEA Pitch Competition
2023-06-20 17:00 - 20:00 | IA
Students attending the 2023 Youth Entrepreneurial Academy will compete for $500 seed money by presenting their business plan in this final pitch competition.
Learn more about the Youth Entrepreneurial Academy.

TechTalk: Fractional Leadership
2023-06-27 17:00 - 19:00 | Lake Time Brewery, 801 Main Ave, Clear Lake, IA, 50428, United States
What is fractional leadership and why do you need to know about it? Join us at Lake Time Brewing for a TechTalk sponsored by CFO Systems, LLC.
TechTalk is a free monthly networking event. We focus on the intersections of technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation where new ideas and new connections are created. Network and learn while enjoying a free locally brewed beverage!
There is no charge to attend. Registration is requested but not required.
Register for TechTalk

CFO Systems provides fractional CFOs, controllers, senior accountants, HR & procurement executives nationwide. Headquartered in Omaha, CFOS was named to Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing companies six of eight years, most recently in 2022. Founded in 2004, the focus is on small to middle market organizations of ALL industries from coast to coast with Directors in multiple locations.
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TechTalk creates a space for sparking new ideas and conversations between innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, educators, technologists, community members, and community partners. TechTalk’s goal is to engage, encourage, and elevate technology in North Iowa.
TechTalk Partners: NIACC Pappajohn Center, North Iowa Corridor EDC, Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

TechTalk: Internships
2023-07-25 17:00 - 19:00 | Lake Time Brewery, 801 Main Ave, Clear Lake, IA, 50428, United States
Join us at Lake Time Brewery for an in-depth look at why internships are such an important investment for both businesses and students! We’ll hear from a panel of the upcoming generation of technologists, engineers, ideators, and innovators — plus the perspective of business leaders and managers about how internships are making their company stronger.
Interns: This is your time to shine! Enjoy an evening of making connections and exploring the opportunities in North Iowa.
Businesses: This is your chance to hear first-hand the benefits of internships and how you can get involved!
Register for TechTalk

Every attendee can receive their first beer on us. Non-alcoholic beverage options will be available, as well.
TechTalk July is sponsored by Stellar Industries, Inc., of Garner, IA.
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TechTalk creates a space for sparking new ideas and conversations between innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, educators, technologists, community members, and community partners. TechTalk’s goal is to engage, encourage, and elevate technology in North Iowa.
TechTalk Partners: NIACC Pappajohn Center, North Iowa Corridor EDC, Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

TechTalk: Living Independently with the help of Home Automation
2023-08-22 17:00 - 19:00 | Lake Time Brewery, 801 Main Ave, Clear Lake, IA, 50428, United States
Join us at TechTalk for an in-depth look at how smart home technology is being used to allow people to live more independent lives. As home automation technologies advance, these innovations are being applied in ever more creative and adaptive ways. OneVision and Next Generation Technologies will lead a wide-ranging discussion on the topic at Lake Time Brewery on Tuesday August 22nd.
Join the conversation for new ideas, new connections, and a free drink on us.
Registration is requested.
Sponsored by OneVision and Next Generation Technologies
Register for TechTalk

TechTalk creates a space for sparking new ideas and conversations between innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, educators, technologists, community members, and community partners. TechTalk’s goal is to engage, encourage, and elevate technology in North Iowa.
TechTalk Partners: NIACC Pappajohn Center, North Iowa Corridor EDC, Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

Online Info Session: Everyday Entrepreneur Pitch Competition
2023-09-18 12:20 - 12:50 | Online
Calling all budding business moguls!
Are you a student or faculty member with a brilliant idea, a passion for innovation, and an entrepreneurial spirit? Look no further than the Everyday Entrepreneurs Pitch Competition.
Join us at this exciting event where we welcome college students of all backgrounds and fields of study, and faculty, to take the stage and present their entrepreneurial skills and business ideas. Whether you’re currently operating a side business, aspiring to launch your own venture, or harboring a fantastic actionable business idea, this is your moment to shine.
Learn more about the competition at this info session
Date: Monday September 18, 2023
Time: 12:20 – 12:50pm
Location: Online via Zoom
Register

In-Person Info Session: Everyday Entrepreneur Pitch Competition
2023-09-18 13:30 - 14:30 | Pappajohn Center #117, 500 College Dr, Mason City, IA, 50401, United States
Calling all budding business moguls!
Are you a student or faculty member with a brilliant idea, a passion for innovation, and an entrepreneurial spirit? Look no further than the Everyday Entrepreneurs Pitch Competition.
Join us at this exciting event where we welcome college students of all backgrounds and fields of study, and faculty, to take the stage and present their entrepreneurial skills and business ideas. Whether you’re currently operating a side business, aspiring to launch your own venture, or harboring a fantastic actionable business idea, this is your moment to shine.
Learn more about the competition at this info session
Date: Monday September 18, 2023
Time: 1:30pm – 2:30pm
Location: Pappajohn Center Room #117
Register

Tech-Driven Productivity: Empowering Businesses for Success
2023-09-19 08:00 - 12:00 | Best Western Holiday Lodge – Clear Lake, 2023 7th Ave N, Clear Lake, IA, 50428, United States
Join renowned tech expert, Beth Z, Your Nerdy Best Friend, for a half-day workshop that will empower your small- or medium-size business with the perfect balance of cutting-edge technology, including the transformative power of AI.
In this dynamic session, Beth Z will demystify complex technologies and reveal practical insights that will revolutionize the way you work. You’ll discover how to:

Turbocharge Efficiency: Streamline workflows, automate tasks, and optimize operations to save time and resources.
Amplify Collaboration: Explore powerful tools that enhance teamwork, facilitate remote work, and improve communication across your organization.
Tap into AI’s Potential: Learn how to leverage AI for intelligent data analysis, customer insights, and decision-making to gain a competitive edge.
Boost Cybersecurity: Gain practical knowledge on protecting your business against cyber threats and safeguarding sensitive information.

This workshop is your ticket to unlocking your business’s superpowers. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to learn from Beth Z and join a community of like-minded business leaders. Sign up now to embrace the future of productivity and set your business up for unprecedented success!
Note: Early registration is strongly recommended as seats are limited for this highly sought-after workshop.
Register for Tech-Driven Productivity

This event is part of a two-seminar series provided through partnerships with the NIACC Pappajohn Center, NIACC Business & Workforce Solutions, the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Mason City Chamber of Commerce.
Sponsored by:

Grow with Google: Build Your Online Presence
2023-09-20 13:00 - 14:00 | IA
Google Your Way to Success
Unleash the Power of Google for Business Growth
The NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center has partnered with Iowa Google Digital Coach Lindsey Newland for a three-part workshop series. These free seminars will help entrepreneurs discover and apply strategies for business growth.
Build Your Online Presence: Establish Domain, Website & Email
Date: September 20, 2023
Time: 1pm-2pm
Where: Virtual Event via Zoom
If you’re curious about bringing your existing business online, or you’re just starting a business and want to know where to begin, it all starts with a domain: your online address and home on the web.
In this session we’ll cover:

The benefits of owning a domain
Helpful web terms to know
How to get the most out of your domain

Register for Build Your Online Presence

Grow With Google: Unlock Online Success
2023-10-11 10:00 - 11:00 | IA
Google Your Way to Success
Unleash the Power of Google for Business Growth
The NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center has partnered with Iowa Google Digital Coach Lindsey Newland for a three-part workshop series. These free seminars will help entrepreneurs discover and apply strategies for business growth.
Unlock Online Success: Reaching Customers with Google Tools
Date: October 11, 2023
Time: 10am-11am
Where: NIACC Pappajohn Center Room #117
Learn how your business can be found online with Google. This workshop explains how Google Search works and how you can improve a website’s visibility with Search Engine Optimization (SEO). The session also introduces products like Google Business Profile, Google Trends, Search Console, Google Ads, and more.
In this workshop we’ll discuss best practices for:

Improving your website’s visibility in Google’s organic search results, on all devices
Creating a free Google Business Profile
Advertising your business on Google

Register for Unlock Online Success

TechTalk: The Intersection of Software + Service
2023-10-24 17:00 - 19:00 | Mason City Brewing, 28 E. State St., Mason City, IA, 50401, United States
This month at TechTalk, we will be discussing the challenges and opportunities that come with bridging technology tools and client expectations. Let’s explore how we utilize a diverse range of technology in design and other fields to most effectively communicate ideas with clients.
Join us at Mason City Brewing for critical discussion and new insights – and a free beer, on us!
Sponsored by Bergland + Cram
TechTalk is a free monthly networking event. We focus on the intersections of technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation where new ideas and new connections are created. Network and learn while enjoying a free locally brewed beverage!
There is no charge to attend. Registration is requested but not required.

Register for TechTalk

TechTalk is a community-led group that creates a space for sparking new ideas and conversations between innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, educators, technologists, community members, and community partners. TechTalk’s goal is to engage, encourage, and elevate technology in North Iowa.
TechTalk Partners: NIACC Pappajohn Center, North Iowa Corridor EDC

Everyday Entrepreneur Pitch Competition
2023-11-13 12:00 - 13:00 | NIACC Activity Center, 500 College Dr, Mason City, IA, 50401, United States
The Everyday Entrepreneur Pitch Competition welcomes college students of all backgrounds and fields of study to take the stage and present their entrepreneurial skills and business ideas. The pitch competition is an opportunity for any student with a unique idea and unwavering drive to take a step toward turning their everyday idea into extraordinary success.
On Monday November 13th, five students will compete in the finals held at the NIACC Activity Center, 12pm-1pm.
The NIACC Pappajohn Center invites you to watch and cheer on the finalists as they present their business plans to a panel of judges and compete for up to $1,250 in prizes.

NIACC Marketplace
2023-11-15 10:00 - 14:00 | NIACC Activity Center, 500 College Dr, Mason City, IA, 50401, United States
The 2023 NIACC Marketplace takes place during Global Entrepreneurship Week and celebrates the creativity, ingenuity, and entrepreneurial spirit of NIACC’s students, faculty, staff, and alumni.
Visit the NIACC Marketplace for the opportunity to purchase unique art, inventions, baked goods, and handicraft from local creators.
When: Wednesday, November 15, 2023
Time: 10am-2pm
Where: NIACC Activity Center
Apply Now
Come and support your local entrepreneurs! All purchases are tax free.
For More Information: Contact the NIACC Pappajohn Center at pappajohn@niacc.edu
Details for Exhibitors:
Exhibitors will not be responsible for the collection of revenues for sold merchandise or sales tax for this event. NIACC Pappajohn SBDC staff will receive payment for all merchandise and NIACC will send the exhibitor a check for the total merchandise sold. All income should be considered taxable, and it is the exhibitor’s responsibility to report this income and to pay all associated federal and state income taxes.
NIACC is not responsible for lost, stolen, and or damaged goods. All vendors will have one table to display their products and should be set up by 9:30 AM in the NIACC Activity Center. Table linens and NIACC plastic bags will be provided. Exhibitors are responsible for staffing their booth and the security of their merchandise.

Grow with Google: Thrive in a Digital World
2023-11-15 11:00 - 12:00 | IA
Google Your Way to Success
Unleash the Power of Google for Business Growth
The NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center has partnered with Iowa Google Digital Coach Lindsey Newland for a three-part workshop series.
Thrive in a Digital World: Connect with Customers and Manage Your Business Remotely
Date: November 15, 2023
Time: 11am-12pm
Location: NIACC Pappajohn Center Room #224
Discover Google tools that can help business owners work and manage their business during this time of uncertainty. Plus, get insights on more online and timely resources for small businesses.
In this workshop we’ll discuss how to:

Update critical business information online
Keep customers informed
Conduct virtual meetings
Access important files from anywhere

Register for Thrive in a Digital World

Business Transition Planning Workshop
2023-11-16 13:00 - 16:00 | Pappajohn Center #117, 500 College Dr, Mason City, IA, 50401, United States
Does your business have a vision for the long-term? Develop the strategies you need to future-proof your business in this free workshop led by the experts. Speakers from The Business Brokers and BrownWinick Law Firm will guide you through everything you need to know about planning for the future. Seats are limited – please register in advance to secure your spot!
Three subject-matter experts will guide you through the essentials of protecting your business legacy:

Business transition strategies to ensure financial protection for your family & key employees
Business liquidity tax planning
Sales, operating and transition agreements
Planned controls and transfer of interests for closely held businesses
How to explore different transition options without creating damage or rumors
How to value your business
How to market the sale of a business

Who Should Attend?

Attorneys
Banking Associates
Brokers
Business Owners
Chamber & Community Leaders
CPAs
Economic Developers
Trust Agents

Where: NIACC Pappajohn Center, Room #117
Register Now

Venture School Launch Day Competition
2023-11-16 17:30 - 21:00 | NIACC Activity Center, 500 College Dr, Mason City, IA, 50401, United States
Teams from the Fall 2023 cohort of Venture School present their business pitch to a panel of judges, with the top prize winning $1,500 in seed money. Additional prizes will be awarded.
The Fall 2023 cohort will compete in person after attending classes virtually for 7 weeks of training, customer discovery, and developing their business model alongside local entrepreneur coaches.
Doors open at 5pm. Competition begins at 5:30pm.
Learn more about Venture School in North Iowa.
Contact Ashley Page at ashley.page@niacc.edu with questions or if you are a local entrepreneur interested in becoming a Venture School coach. To apply for the Spring 2023 cohort, visit the University of Iowa Venture School Program and select the Mason City cohort in the drop-down menu. Or submit an Interest Form.

TechTalk: The Rise of AI
2023-11-28 17:00 - 19:00 | Mason City Brewing, 28 E. State St., Mason City, IA, 50401, United States
Join us for TechTalk on Tuesday, November 28th at Mason City Brewing for a free beer, new ideas, and new connections! We’ll be joined by our sponsor, RSM, for an insightful discussion on Artificial Intelligence. Everywhere you go these days, people are talking about AI and the future of business. Don’t fear the robots – let’s talk about how to make AI work for you!
Registration is requested, but not required.

Register for TechTalk
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TechTalk is an event designed to bring together entrepreneurs, technologists, business people and investors for networking — and more. Members are interested in adding more value to each month’s event while supporting and growing North Iowa’s creative class, including tech employees and employers.
TechTalk creates a space for sparking new ideas and conversations between innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, educators, technologists, community members, and community partners. TechTalk’s goal is to engage, encourage, and elevate technology in North Iowa by creating the opportunity for meaningful interactions.

Financial Essentials: Entrepreneurship Essentials Series
2023-11-30 17:30 - 21:00 | IA
Unlock business growth with insight into financial statements and projections
November 30 | 5:30pm-9pm | Via Zoom
Are you ready to embark on a journey toward entrepreneurial excellence? The NIACC Pappajohn Center and SBDC proudly present a transformative 3-part series designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs, business beginners, and those seeking to revitalize their entrepreneurial endeavors. Entrepreneurship Essentials is your guide to start mastering the fundamental aspects of business creation, financial management, and effective marketing strategies.
In the second installment of our series, Financial Essentials delves into the critical steps required to master your business’s finances.
Your business’s financial health is a crucial determinant of its success. In Financial Essentials we demystify financial statements, empowering you to interpret and leverage these vital tools for decision-making. Discover how to create accurate projections that guide your business growth and unlock valuable insights into your company’s fiscal well-being.
Key Topics Covered:

Understanding Balance Sheets, Income Statements, and Cash Flow Statements
Interpreting Financial Data: Ratios and Trends
Building Realistic Financial Projections
Leveraging Financial Information for Strategic Planning

Register Now

Marketing Essentials: Entrepreneurship Essentials Series
2023-12-07 17:30 - 21:00 | IA
Unleash the power of marketing with key essentials for maximum impact
December 7 | 5:30pm – 9pm | Via Zoom
Are you ready to embark on a journey toward entrepreneurial excellence? The NIACC Pappajohn Center and SBDC proudly present a transformative 3-part series designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs, business beginners, and those seeking to revitalize their entrepreneurial endeavors. Entrepreneurship Essentials is your guide to start mastering the fundamental aspects of business creation, financial management, and effective marketing strategies.
In the third installment of our series, Marketing Essentials delves into the dynamic world of marketing and branding, focusing on the essential task of creating a strategic approach. Elevate your brand and connect with your audience through a strategic blend of digital and traditional marketing methods and develop a well-crafted marketing strategy. Propel your business forward by harnessing the power of modern digital tools such as websites, domains, email campaigns, and social media marketing, and discover the tactics necessary to build a tribe of passionate customers, maintain a strong online presence, and establish a memorable brand.
Key Topics Covered:

Construct a Comprehensive Marketing Strategy for Long-Term Success
Building a Consistent and Authentic Brand Identity within Your Marketing Strategy
Crafting an Effective Online Presence: Websites, Social Media & Google
Harnessing the Potential of Text and Email Marketing
Mobilizing Referrals and Conventional Marketing Approaches

Register Now

Tackle Your Technology To-Do List: Conquer Everyday Tech Challenges with Practical Solutions
2024-01-10 09:00 - 10:30 | IA
Join renowned tech expert, Beth Z, Your Nerdy Best Friend, for a witty and practical webinar that cuts through the noise and focuses on the nuts and bolts of regular technology use. This session is designed to address the everyday tech challenges we all face, providing practical solutions that are relevant to everyone, regardless of skill level.
In this engaging webinar, Beth Z will guide you through a journey of discovery, empowering you to:

Identify Common Tech Hurdles: Uncover the pesky issues that waste your time and cause frustration in your daily tech interactions.
Master Tech Basics: From managing passwords to organizing files and decluttering your inbox, learn the essential skills and best practices that make your tech life smoother and more efficient.
Embrace Smart Solutions: Dive into Beth Z’s card deck filled with tiny tech steps that deliver big results. These practical tips and tricks will save you time, reduce stress, and streamline your technology use.
Boost Productivity: Gain the confidence and know-how to optimize your tech tools, troubleshoot common problems, and tackle your technology to-do list with ease.

This webinar is your opportunity to gain practical insights and actionable strategies to conquer everyday tech challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned tech user or simply looking to enhance your tech skills, this session is tailored to meet your needs.
Register

This event is part of a two-seminar series provided through partnerships with the NIACC Pappajohn Center, NIACC Business & Workforce Solutions, the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Mason City Chamber of Commerce.
Sponsored by:

CTA Compliance Seminar
2024-01-10 13:00 - 14:30 | Online
Effective January 1, 2024, most new and existing corporate entities in the United States will be required to file reports on their beneficial owners with Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (“FinCEN”) under the Corporate Transparency Act (“CTA”). Beneficial owners are generally defined as individuals who own or control an entity, either directly or indirectly, which includes individuals who own 25% or more of the company, or any individuals who exercise substantial control over the entity. The reporting rules are designed to prevent financial crimes, including money laundering, corruption, and tax evasion.
Although there are numerous exemptions from the reporting requirements, many small businesses will not qualify for an exemption and will need to report information on their beneficial owners. Our featured expert Brennan Block, Attorney at BrownWinick Law Firm, will answer your questions and guide you through what you need to know about this new reporting requirement.
This FREE webinar will address:

Who is required to report?
What are the exemptions from reporting?
What information is required to be reported?
Who are beneficial owners?
What is the deadline for filing the initial beneficial ownership report?
How is beneficial ownership information reported?
Is the information reported to FinCEN available to the public?
What are the penalties for failing to report?
Once an initial report is filed is it required to be updated?

Learn the tools and gain the confidence to handle your business’s CTA compliance.
Missed the seminar? Download a copy of the CTA Compliance Semiar slide deck or watch the recorded seminar.
Download
Watch

TechTalk
2024-01-23 17:00 - 19:00 | Mason City Brewing, 28 E. State St., Mason City, IA, 50401, United States
Start off the New Year with an evening of TechTalk, where you’ll find new connections, new ideas, and good conversation! TechTalk is kicking off 2024 with an interactive discussion all about Technology in North Iowa. Join us to hear what’s new from local technologists and business leaders, and share your perspective!
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TechTalk is an event designed to bring together entrepreneurs, technologists, business people and investors for networking — and more. Members are interested in adding more value to each month’s event while supporting and growing North Iowa’s creative class, including tech employees and employers.
TechTalk creates a space for sparking new ideas and conversations between innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, educators, technologists, community members, and community partners. TechTalk’s goal is to engage, encourage, and elevate technology in North Iowa by creating the opportunity for meaningful interactions.

Register for TechTalk

Business Essentials
2024-02-01 17:30 - 20:00 | IA
Are you ready to embark on a journey toward entrepreneurial excellence? The NIACC Pappajohn Center and SBDC proudly present a transformative 3-part series designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs, business beginners, and those seeking to revitalize their entrepreneurial endeavors. Entrepreneurship Essentials is your guide to start mastering the fundamental aspects of business creation, financial management, and effective marketing strategies.
In the first installment of our series, Business Essentials delves into the critical steps required to turn your business idea into a reality. Explore the intricacies of starting a business, uncover the common pitfalls that lead to failure, and gain invaluable insights into what not to do. This session is the cornerstone of your entrepreneurial journey, offering practical guidance and expert advice to set you on the right path.
Key Topics Covered:

Navigating the Business Startup Landscape
Identifying Reasons for Business Failure and How to Avoid Them
Real-World Case Studies: Learning from Mistakes
Crafting a Solid Business Plan

This free online seminar is Part I of the NIACC Pappajohn Center & SBDC Entrepreneurship Essentials series.
Register Now

HR Foundations for Success: Navigating Start-up Growth with Strategic Human Resources Practices
2024-02-07 10:30 - 11:30 | Pappajohn Center #117, 500 College Dr, Mason City, IA, 50401, United States
As your business grows, you need a great team around you. In this free seminar, learn how you can build a strong foundation for success by leveraging strategic human resources practices. The seminar will cover topics like: hiring, job descriptions, organizational charts, payroll, employee policies, and more.
Featured speaker Whitney Brierly, HR Director at CFO Systems LLC, will share her expert insights into the importance and intricacies of human resources practices. Whitney has more than 12 years of experience in Human Resources, mostly in the biofuels and retail industries. Her strengths include problem solving, adaptability, collaboration, and effective communication across all levels of an organization. She currently serves as a Director at CFO Systems, which provides fractional CFOs, controllers, senior accountants, HR & procurement executives nationwide.
Registration is required.
Register Now

TechTalk: A Viral Q&A with The Fat Electrician
2024-02-27 17:00 - 19:00 | Mason City Brewing, 28 E. State St., Mason City, IA, 50401, United States
Join us at TechTalk for a behind the scenes Q&A session with Nic, aka The Fat Electrician. Nic is known across social media for his skit-style military review videos, with over 1.2 million followers on TikTok, 107k+ followers on Instagram, and 829k+ followers on YouTube. You can expect a wide-ranging conversation about going viral in North Iowa, social media tips and insights, and much more.
As always, your first drink at TechTalk is free! Registration is requested.
Register Now

Looking for a little something extra? Bring a friend new to TechTalk, and receive an extra drink on us!
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TechTalk creates a space for sparking new ideas and conversations between innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, educators, technologists, community members, and community partners. TechTalk’s goal is to engage, encourage, and elevate technology in North Iowa by creating the opportunity for meaningful interactions. Members are interested in adding more value to each month’s event while supporting and growing North Iowa’s creative class, including tech employees and employers.
TechTalk is a community-organized event and meets monthly. Learn more or get involved – check us out online and on Facebook.

Credit Card Processing 101
2024-03-26 07:30 - 08:30 | IA
Help your business reduce credit card processing fees with Credit Card Processing 101, brought to you by Payteva and the NIACC Pappajohn Center. This free seminar is specially designed for small business owners.
In this seminar you’ll learn about the latest industry trends and techniques for lowering processing fees. Our speakers from Payteva will also cover:

How to protect yourself from chargebacks
How to choose a processor
Setting your prices to include fees
Identifying fees you shouldn’t be paying
Surcharging the compliant way
Offering true cash discount
Tips & tricks to lower your fees
Level II & Level III Processing
Interchange Rate Increases

A light breakfast will be provided. Registration is required.
Register Now
